As a homeowner, insurance is one of the most crucial aspects of safeguarding your property and personal belongings.  It also includes liability protection for injuries that occur on your property. However, this coverage is not always blanket—there are certain exclusions that homeowners should be aware of.

 Many homeowners are unaware that injuries caused by certain dog breeds may not be covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. This exclusion often arises when a policy contains breed-specific restrictions—policies that refuse to cover damage or injury caused by certain breeds of dogs.

Insurers may use breed-specific exclusions based on the perceived risk of these breeds being more likely to cause harm. Common breeds that may be excluded from coverage include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and others deemed "aggressive" or "dangerous."

In a recent 6^th District Court of Appeals ruling, Garlock v. Jordan, the Ohio Court heldthat insurance companies have the right to exclude certain dog breeds from coverage in homeowners insurance policies.

What Should Homeowners Do?

If you are a homeowner with a dog, especially if you own one of the breeds that commonly appear on exclusion lists (e.g., Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans), here are a few steps to ensure you're adequately protected:

1. Review Your Insurance Policy: Carefully read your homeowners insurance policy and note any breed-specific exclusions. If you own a breed that is excluded, contact your insurer to inquire about possible alternatives or seek coverage from a specialty insurer.
2. Safety First: Regardless of your dog’s breed, always prioritize safety. Proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership can significantly reduce the risk of incidents, which in turn can help protect both your dog and your insurance coverage.

In the end, understanding the nuances of your insurance coverage could make a significant difference in protecting your home, your family, and your furry friends. If you have questions about what your homeowners insurance policy covers, the attorneys at Lardiere McNair & Stonebrook, Ltd., LPA are able to review your policy for you and discuss how any policy exclusions may put you and your family at risk.

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